Lost a 4-week old kit this morning

[SarahMelisse]

I lost my first 4-week old kit today. I've lost pinkies before at 3 or 4 days old, but they were runts. This was my only blue tortoiseshell. I'm a little sad and disappointed even though I try my best not to get attached to them until they make it past weaning. But I handle them daily (they are angoras and it's best to get them used to lots of handling) and nothing seemed to be wrong even last night before I locked up the Rabbitry. Early this morning I went out to feed everyone and I noticed the kit laying near the door getting trampled. When I looked closer it seemed to have quite a bit of poop stuck to it. Their dam had just started weaning the litter herself, so I suspect this kit just didn't make a good transition. Just a sad way to start the day, but it happens for a reason.

 

[MamaSheepdog]

I lost an older kit recently also- it had a snotty nose, and I had to cull it. It was my first also.

If you don't already, make sure the kits have some hay and oats to nibble so they don't eat too many pellets.

Sorry for your loss.

 

[SarahMelisse]

Thanks. I have unlimited hay for them and they do get oats as well. I just hope that will be my only loss from this litter.

 

[trinityoaks]

Awwww! I'm so sorry!

 

[MamaSheepdog]

I have unlimited hay for them and they do get oats as well.

I thought you did- just wanted to make sure. Maybe you should give the others some probiotics just to be safe. I haven't ever found it to be necessary, but I do have a tube of it just in case it is needed.